Fintech in Dubai Healthcare City for American nationals
Free ZoneFinancialRegulated Activity

Fintech in DHCC

Starting From

AED 30,000

Setup Time

10 Business Days

Visa Quota

6 Visas

Location

Dubai

About Fintech

The UAE continues to attract American entrepreneurs seeking to tap into the Middle Eastern market, and DHCC is one of the most popular jurisdictions for fintech operations. Growing American business community (~50,000), which means you will find an established support network, community events, and nationality-specific resources to help your business thrive.

Operating from Dubai Healthcare City gives your Fintech business access to Dubai's world-class infrastructure, including modern office facilities such as clinic space, office, private office and excellent connectivity. As a regulated activity, you will need approval from DFSA/VARA before commencing operations, but IBA's team handles this process seamlessly on your behalf.

IBA International has been helping entrepreneurs set up fintech businesses in Dubai Healthcare City since 2004. Our team of incorporation specialists will guide you through every step, from initial consultation to licence issuance and bank account opening, ensuring a smooth and efficient setup experience.

Why DHCC for Fintech?

Choosing DHCC for your fintech business comes with a host of strategic advantages that directly impact your bottom line and growth potential.

The jurisdiction offers dedicated healthcare free zone, which is particularly valuable for fintech operations. Additionally, regulated clinical environment ensures that your business remains competitive in the regional market. As a free zone entity, your business enjoys complete repatriation of profits and capital, with no currency restrictions on transactions. Office solutions start from AED 35,000 per year for a office, making it accessible for businesses of all sizes. The standard licence includes a visa quota of 6 residency visas, with options to increase this number as your team grows. Medical professionals network further enhances the appeal of DHCC for fintech professionals. Furthermore, international healthcare standards positions your fintech business for long-term success in the region. With Dubai continuing to invest in infrastructure and business-friendly regulation, DHCC remains an excellent choice for both start-ups and established financial enterprises looking to expand into the Middle East and North Africa region.

For American nationals specifically, the Dubai government has fostered a business-friendly environment with streamlined processes that cater to the large American business community.

Dedicated healthcare free zone
Regulated clinical environment
Medical professionals network
International healthcare standards
Integrated healthcare ecosystem

Visa Requirements for American Nationals

US citizens can enter the UAE visa-free for 30 days. A residence visa is processed after company formation for long-term business operations. Once your fintech licence is issued by DHCC, IBA will process your residence visa application, Emirates ID, and medical fitness tests. The entire process typically takes 15–22 business days from licence approval to visa stamping.

Banking for American Business Owners

US nationals face additional FATCA compliance requirements when opening UAE corporate accounts. IBA assists with the additional documentation required. For your fintech business in DHCC, IBA recommends opening a corporate account with a bank that has experience serving American business owners. We will prepare your banking file including the trade licence, shareholder documents, business plan, and any United States-specific attestations required.

Document Attestation for American Nationals

American nationals setting up a business in the UAE will need to attest certain documents through US Department of State / Secretary of State. This typically includes your passport copy, educational certificates (if applicable for fintech), and any existing business documents. The attestation must then be verified by the UAE Embassy in Abu Dhabi before submission to DHCC.

Requirements & Documents

1Valid United States passport (minimum 6 months validity)
2Documents attested by US Department of State / Secretary of State
3UAE Embassy attestation from Abu Dhabi
4Professional qualification certificates or approvals from DFSA/VARA
5Proof of residential address (utility bill or bank statement)
6Passport-sized photographs with white background
7Passport copies of all shareholders and directors (valid for at least 6 months)
8Proposed company name (2-3 alternatives)

Regulatory Note: Fintech is a regulated activity in the UAE. Additional approval from DFSA/VARA is required. IBA can guide you through the full regulatory process.

Cost Breakdown

ItemCost (AED)
License Fee30,000
Visa Package (per visa)6,000
Clinic Space50,000
Office35,000
Private Office60,000
Estimated Total (Year 1)From AED 86,000

* Costs are indicative and subject to change. Contact IBA for a personalised quote.

Setup Timeline

1

Consultation

Free consultation with IBA to discuss your fintech business plan and the best DHCC licence options for American nationals.

2

Document Preparation

Prepare and attest all required documents from United States through US Department of State / Secretary of State and the UAE Embassy.

3

Licence Application

Submit the fintech licence application to DHCC. IBA handles all paperwork and government interactions.

4

Trade Licence Issued

Receive your official DHCC trade licence within 10–13 business days.

5

Visa Processing

Process your UAE residence visa, Emirates ID, and medical fitness. US citizens can enter the UAE visa-free for 30 days.

6

Bank Account

Open a corporate bank account. US nationals face additional FATCA compliance requirements when opening UAE corporate accounts.

7

Start Operations

Your fintech business is ready to operate in the UAE. IBA provides ongoing PRO, accounting, and compliance support.

Total estimated time: 10 business days. IBA handles the entire process end-to-end so you can focus on your business.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. DHCC allows 100% foreign ownership for all nationalities, including American nationals. No local sponsor or partner is required.

Get Started Today

Ready to set up your fintech in DHCC? Our team is here to help.

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Quick Facts

JurisdictionDHCC
TypeFree Zone
EmirateDubai
License FeeAED 30,000
Setup Time10 days
Visa Quota6
Activity Code64110

Official Source

www.dhcc.ae

By IBA Business Setup Team

Last updated: 26 February 2026

International Business Advisors DMCC has been helping entrepreneurs set up businesses in the UAE since 2004, with 20+ years of hands-on expertise.

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